Formula E has teamed up with Google Cloud to roll out a groundbreaking AI tool that could transform access to driver coaching in motorsport. At the heart of this innovation is the Driver Agent. A new platform designed to give all racers—regardless of budget or background. The same level of performance insight typically reserved for top-tier teams.
By using AI to democratize race data and coaching, the partnership aims to close the gap in driver development. Particularly for underrepresented groups and female drivers. The Driver Agent offers real-time feedback based on a driver’s unique racing data. Making elite-level analysis available beyond the walls of elite garages.
The tool is built on Google Cloud’s Vertex AI, powered by the Gemini large language model family. It’s trained to understand both language and complex performance metrics. Translating telemetry like braking points, G-force, acceleration, and lap consistency into clear, actionable advice.
Hooked up to Formula E’s high-performance driving simulators, the Driver Agent delivers coaching that mirrors the in-race guidance pro engineers provide. Tips are offered in both audio and written formats, making it easier for drivers to react and adjust mid-session. Just as they would on a real track under pressure.
According to Barnaby Voss, UKI & Partner Marketing Director at Google Cloud, EMEA, this initiative is more than just a tech update—it’s a shift in accessibility. “The introduction of Driver Agent is going to be a game changer,” he said. “It allows drivers from all backgrounds to hone their skills without needing a massive support team or expensive analytics tools.”
This marks a major turning point for drivers who’ve traditionally lacked access to professional-grade performance tools. Now, with the Driver Agent, those barriers are breaking down.
Formula E plans to roll out the Driver Agent across its championship, but the ambition stretches far beyond. The tool will also be available to any racing team, driver, or series looking to integrate AI-driven performance analytics. From grassroots karting to semi-pro circuits, the impact could be widespread.
Beth Paretta, Vice President of Sporting at Formula E, highlighted the wider vision: “Formula E has always been a platform for innovation, and we are thrilled to partner with Google Cloud to push the boundaries of what’s possible when world-class motorsport meets world-class tech.”
By comparing an individual driver’s inputs to professional benchmarks, the system delivers highly personalized coaching. That includes braking adjustments, cornering technique, throttle control, and even advice on improving race consistency—all areas that directly influence performance and lap times.
A core focus of the rollout is equity. Through a partnership with More than Equal, the initiative will help bring more women into motorsport by offering cutting-edge coaching to emerging female drivers. Google Cloud supports this through the Driver Development Programme, which gives five young women access to Formula E-grade simulators at Manchester Metropolitan University’s Institute of Sport.
The Driver Agent becomes a vital piece of this puzzle, helping to level the playing field for women in racing. Rather than relying on access to elite teams, these drivers will receive data-driven feedback based purely on their skill and performance.
The joint effort underscores a shared commitment to diversity, talent development, and the power of AI in sport. For Formula E, it’s another step in their mission to drive innovation. For Google Cloud, it’s a real-world example of how AI can enhance human performance—not replace it.
Beth Paretta summed it up: “We’re helping to create a future where racing success is determined by skill, not budget. By offering tools like Driver Agent, we’re making sure more drivers, especially women, can rise to the top based on talent alone.”
